Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert produced enough early to give his team a fourth-quarter lead against the Denver Broncos in Week 5, then helped squander its best chance at a first win. His late fumble and interception sealed a 23-17 defeat, dropped the Chargers to 0-5, and intensified the concern that his mistakes will define this season.
Herbert completed 14 of 24 passes for 121 yards, one touchdown and one interception while adding 54 rushing yards. The final numbers did not fully capture the swing in the fourth quarter: The Chargers had a seven-point lead before their offense posted a turnover on downs, a lost fumble and an interception on consecutive late opportunities to regain control.
Locked On Chargers host Daniel Wade said Herbert’s interception stood out because it was an anticipatory throw into coverage rather than the kind of contested attempt or tipped pass that he has been known for. Herbert now has seven interceptions through five games after throwing 13 a year ago. He had only three in 17 games during the 2024 season.
Locked On Chargers co-host David Droegemeier argued that Herbert’s decision-making has become uncharacteristic, particularly in high-leverage moments. Wade added that the route concept offered little help by leaving the flat undefended, but he still placed responsibility on Herbert for forcing the throw when he had time to work through his progressions.
The offense has given Herbert a difficult environment, including a depleted lineup and inconsistent protection, and he created some of the unit’s best moments with his legs. That context matters, but it does not erase the cost of the turnovers. The Chargers lost the turnover margin 3-1 in Week 5, and Denver converted the favorable field position into the points that erased the lead.
Herbert and the offense now face a defining response before the bye week. The Chargers travel to face the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium needing cleaner late-game execution from their quarterback.
Chargers News and Notes
– Jim Harbaugh said he regretted his decision to go for fourth-and-1 from the L.A. 41-yard line with a seven-point lead in the fourth quarter. The failed quarterback sneak gave Denver a short field after its offense had struggled to sustain anything for much of the game.
– The defense again gave the Chargers a winning-level effort despite the final score. Denver converted one of 12 third downs, averaged less than four yards per play, and repeatedly benefited from the short fields created by the offense and special teams.
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